Iraq: Where the candidates stand

FOR THE RECORD:
This article incorrectly states that Barack Obama has called for a withdrawal of troops from Iraq beginning within 16 months. He has called for the withdrawal of all combat brigades within 16 months.

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Barack Obama: Opposed invading Iraq; has voted as senator to authorize war funding; would begin withdrawal of troops within 16 months and leave some troops to protect diplomats and prevent Al Qaeda gaining a "foothold." Wants no permanent military bases in Iraq; would launch aggressive regional diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region, isolate Al Qaeda and support Iraqi reconciliation; favors financial support for Iraqi reconstruction and humanitarian aid.

Republicans

Rudolph Giuliani: Opposes setting timetable for withdrawal; supported troop "surge"; sees Iraq as one front in "Islamic terrorist war on the U.S."; supports increasing troops in Iraq and leaving troops in the country until stability is achieved; calls for increasing the size of the military.

Mike Huckabee: Opposes setting timetable for withdrawal; supports regional summit for Iraq's neighboring countries to help stabilize Iraq; supports the troop buildup; sees Iraq as battleground in a "generational, ideological" war on terror.

John McCain: An early proponent of the "surge"; opposes setting a withdrawal timetable for troops; advocates increased military commitment; believes the war is justified but mismanaged, lacking enough U.S. forces in Iraq to halt violence, secure strongholds, rebuild the economy, dismantle Al Qaeda and stabilize the country.

Mitt Romney: Supports Bush troop buildup; opposes troop withdrawal; supports increasing military presence in Iraq; supports Petraeus' report; does not support permanent military presence in Iraq.

Sources: Candidate websites, Associated Press, Times research